BREAKING:Red Bull Faces Criticism Over Ty…Read more

Red Bull Faces Criticism Over Tyre Strategy in Spanish Grand Prix

Red Bull Racing is under scrutiny following Max Verstappen’s controversial collision with George Russell during the 2025 Spanish Grand Prix. The incident, which occurred on Lap 63, was exacerbated by Red Bull’s decision to fit Verstappen’s car with hard tyres during a late safety car period, leaving him at a disadvantage against competitors on softer compounds.

The safety car was deployed after Antonelli’s engine failure on Lap 55, prompting the top nine drivers to pit for fresh tyres. While most opted for soft tyres, Verstappen, lacking a fresh set, was fitted with hard tyres. This choice compromised his ability to maintain tyre temperature and grip upon the race’s resumption, allowing rivals like Charles Leclerc and George Russell to challenge his position. In a subsequent sequence, Verstappen appeared to let Russell pass but then aggressively re-overtook him, resulting in contact between the two cars. The FIA deemed Verstappen at fault, issuing a 10-second penalty and adding three penalty points to his Super Licence, bringing his total to 11—just one point shy of an automatic race ban.

Verstappen later acknowledged that the move was “not right and shouldn’t have happened,” attributing it to frustration over race conditions and strategy.

The incident has sparked debate within the Formula 1 community, with former world champion Nico Rosberg calling for Verstappen’s disqualification and highlighting the importance of driver conduct.

As the championship progresses, Red Bull’s strategic decisions and Verstappen’s conduct will be under increased scrutiny, especially with the Canadian Grand Prix approaching. Any further infractions could lead to Verstappen facing a race ban, potentially impacting his title defense.